DAVIES JOINS OSPREYS

The centre - who took a year out from rugby to go travelling - has signed for Lyn Jones's star studded side despite an offer tabled by his former employers. The 29-year-old, who has won 21 caps as a centre for Wales, left the Scarlets at the end of last season and was expected to rejoin the region.

His move to the local rivals will heighten the tension between the two sides as the final games of the Celtic League take place and team jockey for seeding for the upcoming Celtic Cup.

"Strength in depth is important to build on the success of this year," said Ospreys manager Derwyn Jones. "Leigh has had some time away from the game, and has returned mentally and physically refreshed."

Jones added: "While Leigh has been away he has been monitored and working to a conditioning programme we agreed with him before he left. We look forward to him joining us for pre-season training, as Leigh is in better shape than he has been for many years.

"It is great that another local player has decided to join the Ospreys at what is an exciting time for the region. He will bring quality and experience to our young squad."

Davies started his first-class career in west Glamorgan with Neath RFC, his hometown club.

Wales reached their first semi-final since 2013 in the opening round of this season's HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series in Dubai. WRU TV's Graeme Gillespie recaps on what proved to be an eventful tournament

Wales and Ospreys back row James King, who came through the North Wales age grade system, nominated North Wales Regional Community Rugby Manager Marc Roberts, in the WRU's 'Diolch' initiative where squad players thanked those who played a part in their rise to the top.

Beating Merthyr has boosted Carmarthen Quins hopes of reaching a top eight spot in the Principality Premiership. Quins captain Haydn Pugh is delighted with his team's progress and is determined that everyone from the Under 6s through to the senior team, enjoys the ride.

When the Wales squad were asked to nominate individuals who played a big part in their early playing days, Wales and Dragons full back and wing Hallam Amos thought of his former Monmouth School rugby coach John Bevan.

Sam Cross and Luke Treharne have been named as co-captains of the Wales Sevens side as head coach Gareth Williams names his 12-man squad to play in the first leg of the HSBC World Series in Dubai next weekend.

Bedwas head coach Steve Law and players Nicky Griffiths and Alun Rees extol the virtues of the close knit club as they prepare to host third place RGC 1404 - who are one place head of them on the Principality Premiership points table - on Saturday.

Many of the Wales squad have said Diolch (thank you) to someone who played an important part in their early playing days by nominating them to be invited to the Wales v South Africa match. One person, Gowerton Comprehensive geography teacher Mr Dean Mason was nominated by two of his former pupils, Dan Biggar and Sam Davies.

The second WRU disability rugby pilot has been delivered, this time in Caerphilly schools, culminating in a festival at the Caerphilly Centre of Sporting Excellence, Ystrad Mynach tomorrow. Plans are in place to set up a Disability Rugby Club in Newbridge to provide long-term playing opportunities.

WRU TV: Hear from inside the Wales camp as Neil Jenkins discusses this weekend's clash with South Africa and how the squad are looking to put in a strong performance to round of the 2016 Under Armour Series